I created this gifts for stroke patients list as a way for family members to support your loved one, as a stroke can be a life-changing event for the survivor, their family, and friends. While recovery can be a long and difficult process, there are many ways to provide support and care for someone who has suffered from a stroke.
One way to show your love and support is by giving them a thoughtful stroke recovery gift that can help them during their recovery journey and improve their quality of life. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide what to get.
I’ve done the research for you and compiled a list of stroke survivor gift ideas that range in cost and consider the severity of individual side effects and their physical disabilities which is why some gifts include adaptive equipment.
By providing these gifts for stroke survivors, I hope to make it easier for you to show your support for your loved one as well as provide greater independence.
I’ve broken the gift ideas for stroke patients into categories to help you navigate the ideas to find the right gift. Happy shopping!
*Please note that this post contains clearly identified affiliate links. If you click on these links and choose to make a purchase, I may receive a commission (at no cost to you). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Top Takeaways
- Stroke recovery can be a challenging and life-changing journey for both the survivor and their loved ones, and offering support through thoughtful gifts can make a difference.
- Consider various factors when selecting a gift, including the severity of the stroke, the stage of recovery, the patient’s interests and hobbies, practicality, and the option to personalize the gift.
- Gift ideas for stroke patients are categorized into different sections, such as items to support cooking and eating, warm and comforting gifts like blankets and socks, sensory aids like eye masks and earplugs, educational books, activity books, essentials like pill organizers and water bottles, and the gift of spending quality time and support from friends and family.
- The most important gift you can give is your presence and support throughout the stroke survivor’s recovery journey.
Things To Consider Before Purchasing A Gift
Before purchasing a gift for a stroke patient, there are several things to consider to ensure that the gift is both thoughtful and useful for their recovery journey. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Severity of the stroke: The type and severity of the stroke can greatly impact the patient’s abilities and needs. For example, if the patient has limited mobility or dexterity, gifts that require physical activity or fine motor skills may not be appropriate. Side effects like one sided weakness, poor coordination and dexterity should be considered.
- Stage of recovery: The stage of recovery can also impact what type of gift would be most helpful. In the early stages of recovery, the focus may be on regaining basic skills such as speech or mobility, while in later stages, the focus may shift to adapting to long-term changes.
- Interests and hobbies: Consider the patient’s interests and hobbies when selecting a gift. If they enjoy reading, audiobooks or e-readers may be a good choice, while someone who enjoys puzzles may appreciate a puzzle book or game.
- Practicality: Practical gifts can also be appreciated, such as tools or devices that can help with daily tasks, such as adaptive utensils or a reacher tool to help with picking up items.
- Personalization: Consider personalizing the gift to make it even more thoughtful and meaningful. Adding a personal touch, such as a handwritten note or a customized item, can show the patient that you put thought and care into selecting the gift.
Food Gifts For Stroke Patients
Food gift ideas for stroke survivors vary based on their medical condition.
We know the importance of eating good nutrients to heal and recover – In fact, I have a whole section on stroke diet recipes, foods to avoid for stroke, and how they follow the Mediterranean and DASH diet patterns that provide many examples of healthy food ideas.
But in order to support individuals to cook at home, it is important to increase their confidence and make sure they are comfortable in the kitchen (and while eating!) to make it more enjoyable than frustrating.
Here are some supportive gifts for stroke victims to help make cooking and eating easier.
Support Cooking
One Handed Cutting Board
This can be helpful for stroke patients with limited mobility or dexterity in one hand. When looking for a cutting board be sure to choose one with a non slip base to avoiding sliding, and one that has spikes and clamps to hold food in place.
Blender
A blender may be useful gift for stroke patients having difficulty swallowing, chewing or digesting certain foods.
Jar and Bottle Openers are Important
Opening a tin takes coordination and hand strength – help your loved one out with this one handed tin opener, or the jar/bottle opener. Solving these barriers help stroke survivors increase their independence and confidence in the kitchen. Both solutions can be operated with one hand, making it a practical gift for people with a stroke.
Support Eating
One thing we need to do every day whether we’ve had a stroke or not is to eat. With side effects of stroke such as one-sided weakness or tremors (it’s hard not to spill with those!), this can be challenging.
Let’s help your loved one eat independently with these gift ideas for stroke victims.
Adaptive Eating Utensils
Non slip handles is a perfect gift that was developed for individuals living with Parkinson’s disease, but it works well for stroke patients too! Prevents spilling, and helps stabilize hands because of their broad grip or curved handles.
Fork and Knife in One
When I asked past clients what was a good gift for stroke patients, this was it!
You may have heard of a sprok before (a spoon and fork combined), but have you heard of a knork? Don’t worry, the knife on the outside of this knife and fork combo isn’t too sharp to hurt oneself when eating. This is a great way to increase independence.
Spill Proof Plates And Mixing Bowls
From my experience spill proof plates and mixing bowls can provide support and stability for those with limited hand and arm strength so they don’t have to worry about spills or accidents while eating, increasing their confidence eating with others. This makes this a good gift idea for stroke victims which was recommended by an occupational therapy colleague.
What Food To Buy Stroke Patients
A question I often receive as a dietitian is “What food to buy stroke patients?”
Food options to buy stroke patients can vary. They may have a diet therapies in place because they may have difficulty chewing or swallowing depending on the severity of stroke and where they are in the recovery process.
If no diet medical diets are in place, then I would recommend the following food gift ideas:
- a fruit basket filled with fresh fruits
- a healthy snack basket which includes no salt added nuts, seeds, dried fruits and whole grain crackers
- blender and smoothie ingredients – include vegetables, fruits are part of the Mediterranean dietary pattern which is recommended for stroke recovery
- meal delivery service gift cards, where they can choose what they want and skip the daunting task of grocery store shopping
Warm and Comforting
What is better than keeping your loved ones comfy cozy with these good gifts for stroke patients, especially if they are still in a hospital bed.
Weighted Blanket
The gentle pressure heavy blankets provide is a good idea because it has added benefit of a calming effect that reduces stress and getting a good night’s sleep (1).
Soft Cozy Blanket
Don’t want a weighted blanket? Get a regular blanket, but choose a colorful, patterned blanket to brighten up their day.
Housecoat
If you are wondering what a good gift for a stroke patient in the hospital. Buy a housecoat! It is an excellent gift because wards are cold, and hospital gowns are thin. They are easy to put on, especially if they don’t have buttons. Try one that is warm but can be easily washed.
Comfy Socks
Another way to keep your loved one warm and comfortable in the hospital is with comfy socks. These no slip gripper socks are suitable for men and women. More specifically they help avoid falls keeping everyone as safe as possible. Be sure to purchase one that has antislip across the whole sole if possible.
Slippers
Two types of slippers are featured here, and both have backs and skid resistance rubber to prevent falls! Backs are important so the slippers stay on the feet to avoid falls. One has adjustable strap to improve comfort and fit. Adjustable Velcro can also be good for swollen feet.
Eye Mask
Another great gift for stroke patients in hospital are eye masks. Sensory overload is common after a head injury so avoiding bright lights can help aid in sleep.
Earplugs
Like light, too much noise can be overwhelming for stroke patients. Find ones that are comfortable to wear. These gifts are also practical gift ideas for individuals living with heart disease.
Noise Cancelling Headphones
If you like the idea of reducing extra noise, upgrade your gift to noise-cancelling headphones. Your loved ones can use them for listening to soothing music, or just being quiet, one of the best gifts for stroke victims.
Aromatherapy Essential Oil Diffuser
This is a beautiful gift, that provides a calming relaxing effect and improves one’s mood. It always reminds me of going to the spa. I have one in my bedroom for the same effect.
Essential Oils
As an accompanying gift to the diffuser, consider selecting their favorite scents. In my experience, these oils are very soothing, with minimal effort.
Books
Books are ideal gifts because you can consider their personality here as well as their ability to flip pages. If they can’t flip pages, there are audiobooks for that. Books are a great form of entertainment, improve cognitive function or provide them with support/encouragement on the stroke recovery journey. Check out these excellent books.
Education on Living With A Stroke
A helpful guide for stroke patients and their families to understand what to expect on the road ahead. A comprehensive understanding of recovery has been described as the ultimate guide to understanding the road ahead.
Motivating Stories of Past Stroke Survivors
A patient’s first account of what it’s like to have a stroke, and the recovery process. Personal stories make this journey feel more human which makes this one of the best stroke recovery gifts.
Cookbooks
Activity Book
To keep your loved ones entertained and distracted with their situation. This stroke recovery gift keeps them occupied but not frustrated. They are wonderful brain games, just like a jigsaw puzzle can be. Families of stroke patients speak highly of me.
Coloring Book
Essentials
Pill Organizer
It takes a while to get into a routine with how many pills to take, and at which time. These organizers can be very helpful for that. Be sure to choose one with a push button for easy access and are dishwasher safe.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important in stroke recovery, why not make it fun and motivational with this gift! Sometimes these simple gift ideas can really make a positive impact on your loved one’s quality of life.
Mug
This funny gift for stroke victims is perfect if your loved ones who required brain surgery. Throughout their healing journey this small gift can remind them of how strong they are. It also makes a great stocking stuffer.
Free Gifts
Can’t forget the importance of a strong social support system during your loved ones’ recovery. It’s probably the most important gift of all. Be sure to also:
- spend time with them
- cook a special meal together
- go for a walk
- invite pets and other friends and family to visit
This helps them feel supported and loved. There is no better gift than that.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, you found a gift for your stroke survivor that is well suited to their needs.
Supporting a stroke survivor can be a challenging and emotional journey, but it is also an opportunity to show your love and care. By giving a thoughtful gift, you can make a positive impact on their recovery journey whether it’s a just-because gift or a gift for the upcoming holiday season like Christmas gifts.
Whether it is a simple gesture or a more significant investment, every gift has the potential to make a difference. We hope that these gifts for stroke patients will inspire you to find the perfect way to show your love and support for your loved one.
Remember, the most important thing you can do is be there for them every step of the way (in addition to buying one of these wonderful gifts).
